An account of a guest at the Freemason Ladies Festival 

 

On Saturday the 18th of November, the Freemason community hosted the Christmas Ladies Festival. This event was to thank and honour the wives, partners, and girlfriends of Freemasons. Master Javed Agha hosted this Freemason celebration. 

 

What happened at this event?

This celebration was held at Derougemont Manor in Brentwood. On arrival, guests were greeted by the Master Mason. The evening entailed a four-course dinner along with two charity raffles and an auction. The auction included a one-week stay in a villa in Tenerife as well as a TV. The raffles had an abundance of items to be won such as alcohol, scarves, and handbags. After the meal, guests could win prizes through the giant Spin the Wheel game. This evening ended with a DJ and dancing, a true celebration where Freemasons came together to honour their partners. A photographer was there to capture the memories made that night, as well as take shots of couples, friends and families who all attended. The Freemasons welcomed the wider community, Mili, a guest attending this said, “the dinner and dance was a lot of fun, as someone who is not a Freemason I felt welcomed by the Master Mason and the rest of the Freemason community…”

 

So, what is Freemasonry? 

Freemasons are people who believe in brotherhood and helping those within their community. The fundamental beliefs of Freemasonry are integrity, friendship, respect, and service. This fraternal group stem from local stonemasons. Freemasonry was founded in 1717 when the Grand Lodge was established. Freemasonry is not a religion, but its followers believe in a higher being, often referred to as the “Grand Architect of the Universe.” 

 

How does one become a Freemason?

First, a person must become a part of the community. Once a part of this fraternity, one must join a Masonic lodge. A masonic lodge refers to a private lodge where Freemasons meet. The next three stages correlate to the three degrees of Masonry. 

 

What does the ‘Master Mason’ do?

The Master Mason has many responsibilities and duties dedicated to their community, some of these tasks involve being present at business meetings and awarding other Freemasons their degrees. 

 

What are the Freemason degrees?

Traditionally there are three degrees in Freemasonry. Each degree represents one of the three stages of human development: youth, manhood and maturity. The first degree is known as the ‘Entered Apprentice’.  The second degree is ‘Fellowcraft’ and the last is ‘Master Mason’.